The western end of the park even ascends into the 4000-foot San Bernardino Mountains, home of quaking aspen, California juniper, and Douglas pine trees. The densest growth of Joshua trees in the world is found on the 1500-foot Cima Dome. The Joshua trees for which the park is named are more prevalent in the higher elevations on the Mojave side. The Colorado Desert’s gentle slopes receive more annual rainfall and are home to desert lavender, desert agave, and colorful ocotillo plants. These deserts have different elevations, and as a result, different ecosystems.

The southern tip of the Mojave Desert makes up its western edge and the Colorado Desert covers its eastern and southern areas. Many people don’t realize Joshua Tree National Park is actually composed of two distinct deserts. Joshua Tree National Park includes two deserts.

Joshua Tree National Park has always had a glamorous cachet-it is, after all, just two hours away from Los Angeles, so it's no surprise the park has a fascinating history filled with Hollywood-style drama.

U2 the joshua tree scene